Skip to Content

41 Gifts For Teen Boys They'll Be Not-So-Secretly Excited About

Whatever you do, don't get him socks.

By ,
best gifts for teen boys

Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?

If the gifts you’re giving to your teen boy lately have been met with a halfhearted, "thanks," and perhaps even an eye-roll, it's time to level up your game. As a shopping editor and a mom of a teenage son, keeping up with what gifts are still “cool” is pretty much my job—so I’m here to make things easy.

Whether you’re shopping for a birthday, holiday, graduation, or another special event, we've researched the gifts that guys this age will actually appreciate. Like anyone, teen boys often want the latest Apple tech, new sneakers, and even self-care items like cologne. They’d also like LEGO sets, this fun inflatable lounger, or a portable projector that he can take from his childhood bedroom to his dorm room.

From a newly minted 13-year-old to a very grown-up 18-year-old, we’ve got the gift ideas covered. Many of our picks are under $30, but there are some splurges here if you'd like to get other family members in on a group gift. See? That wasn’t so hard.

Doesn't it seem like he's always on the go to this friend's house or the pool or the fields or...basically anywhere but his own home? This inflatable couch is perfect for his on-the-go lifestyle because it packs up easily and is a soft spot to relax no matter where he and his friends land.

He'll never outgrow his love for LEGOs, but the sets will definitely get cooler. This Lamborghini Huracán has over 800 pieces and will look great displayed in his room when he's done building it.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

This award-winning fidget toy starts as a cube, but then folds and unfolds into shapes. Magnets hold the sides together with a satisfying click. Get it in a dozen cool designs.

This popular paper airplane it is a must-buy for any engineering-minded teen you know. It provides instructions on folding the plane, attaching the hardware, and then he can fly it around using an app on his phone. It's even able to do quite a few tricks.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

A nice (but not too pricey) cologne is a great way to upgrade your teen to something more grown up while steering them away from those oppressive body sprays. Commerce Editor Jessica Dukes got her teenage son a set of Harry’s eau de parfums. Not only does she love the warm and fresh scent of this one, it’s almost empty, so her son clearly likes it too.

Trends come and go, especially for teen boys, but Adidas kicks are timeless. These black and white colors go with everything, but they also come in a whopping 70 colors in case you’re in tune to his personal style. Choose from neutrals or bright pastels, depending on what they like.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Get him outside with a disc golf set. This 3-pack comes with a driver, mid-range, and putter. You may also want to grab a basket for the backyard once his obsession becomes all-consuming.

In this simple game (that they probably saw on TikTok), players take turns throwing their Popdarts at the orange target, and different points are awarded for hitting it, getting it closest, or sticking to it. Whoever wins gets to pick the next target location, and the first team to 21 points wins. It's super easy to learn and keeps them away from screens for a while.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
9
if he collects vinyl

Cotsoco Record Player

On Sale
Record Player
Now 33% Off

Music to his ears: This vintage-inspired vinyl record player is not only equipped to play his favorite LPs, but it also has a built-in Bluetooth system to blast songs right from his smartphone. He can also connect external speakers with the included cables for an even bigger sound.

10
a slim mag charger

Anker Nano Power Bank

Nano Power Bank

This ultra-compact portable charger will come in handy all year long. It's slim, lightweight, and magnetizes directly to his phone so he won't have to worry about pesky cords (although it works with a USB-C cord if needed). You'll never hear the words "sorry, my phone was dead" again!

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

The noise-canceling technology on these Studio Pros means he won't hear you or anyone around him, but that could be a good thing when he’s studying for finals or working out. They’ll pair with Apple or Android, and the battery lasts up to 40 hours.

12
these everyday shoes

Crocs Classic Clogs

Classic Clogs

Crocs never seem to go out of style, and we're pretty sure he'll want to wear these durable slip-ons around the house, to school, and everywhere in between. Younger teens may even be into the Jibbitz decorations.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
13
play indoors or out

Winyea Tag Laser Tag Set

Laser Tag Set
Now 15% Off

When the weather’s not cooperating, here’s something that'll keep him active indoors. This top-rated laser tag set is ideal for him and a friend, or you can grab a set of four so the whole family can get in on the game.

He'll love keeping his room stocked with his favorite snacks and drinks for sleepovers and game nights. This model plugs into a wall outlet or even a car charger.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

For the kid who’s always doodling in the margins, drawing funny pictures for his younger siblings, or has any interest in the arts, this step-by-step guide can sharpen his skills. Pair this gift with a sketchbook and a nice set of pencils.

16
His New Favorite Thing

Bed Tent

On Sale
Bed Tent
Now 25% Off

What's the number one thing teen boys want? More privacy. Give him a space all his own with a bed tent. This one comes in twin, full, and queen sizes, and has breathable fabric. The best part is that there are windows, so he can put the blackout shades down on weekends to get maximum sleep-in time.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
17
For the Adrenaline Junkie

Lightning Reaction Reloaded

Lightning Reaction Reloaded
Now 11% Off

This fun game comes with a risk that he and his friends will love. A red light flashes on the console and when it turns green, the last player to react by squeezing the handle trigger gets a little electric shock!

18
For the Serious Gamer

Ferghana Gaming Chair

Gaming Chair

Our hope is that this adjustable ergonomic chair will come in handy for long homework and study sessions, but we know the main activity it will see is video games. Regardless, it's a great gift since he'll be way more comfortable. On top of its lumbar and headrest cushions, it also reclines and has a pop-out footrest. It even features a massage function.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
19
has WiFi and Bluetooth

XuanPad Smart Mini Projector

On Sale
Smart Mini Projector
Now 35% Off

Drop a hint to the grandparents that a projector would be a great gift for college. He'll be able to stream movies and TV from his favorite apps on any wall, and this top-rated portable version is a lot easier to maneuver into a dorm than a flatscreen.

Maybe it’s the lingering Stranger Things effect, but Dungeons & Dragons is cool again. Get him into the D&D world with a starter set, ideal for any beginner.

Watch Next 
Video poster
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below